Rosetta James

Rosetta James, age 97, entered her eternal rest on March 5, 2026, passing peacefully in her sleep. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great‑grandmother, daughter, sister, and faithful servant of God, Rosetta lived a long and beautiful life marked by grace, humility, and unwavering trust in the Lord.

Born on May 4, 1928, in Russellville, Alabama, Rosetta was raised with strong values of faith, family, and community. She attended Reedtown High School in Russellville, AL, where she formed lifelong friendships and developed the character, determination, and compassion that guided her throughout her life.

In June 1952, she married Robert James, Jr. Their marriage was filled with love, devotion, and partnership. Together they built a home rooted in warmth, joy, and faith—a home where love was lived out day by day. Their journey together took them beyond their Alabama roots. They lived for a time in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, and later in Rockford, Illinois. While in Rockford, she was member of Providence Baptist Church. In 1986, she returned home to Russellville.

Rosetta’s relationship with God was the cornerstone of her life. Her favorite scripture, Psalm 23, brought her comfort and peace in every season:
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
These sacred words reflected her calm strength, her trust in God’s care, and the deep compassion she extended to all. She often referred to God as her “Good Master”. She was a devoted member of St. Paul CME Church where she served as an usher for over 50 years. At one point she was recognized as the oldest active usher in the National CME church. She also thoroughly enjoyed her time singing with the group, The Nightingales.

Above all, she was devoted to her family. She poured her heart into raising her children with love, patience, and unwavering support. Her home was a place of warmth, comfort, and welcome—where anyone could find a listening ear, a warm meal (which would often include one of her homemade cakes or pies), or a bit of gentle wisdom. Her legacy lives on in the values she instilled and the countless lives she touched. Her grandchildren and great‑grandchildren were among her greatest joys, and she held each of them close in her heart and prayers.

Rosetta leaves behind her brother, Freddie (Cynthia) Graham; her children: Roberta (Gabriel) Hudson, Maurice (Shirley) James, Larry (Connie) James, and Deborah Borden; her grandchildren: Gabriel (Kendra) Hudson, Jr., Takhesha Hudson, Gary Herrin-James, Shanae (Kelvin) Coleman, Britanny Flannigan, Camille (Joshua) Livesay, Bradley (Treanna) James, Patrice (Kevin) Chappell, Porschea Borden, Patrick Borden, Pharin (Terrell) Goldsmith, and Patricia Borden; and 13 great‑grandchildren who brought immense joy to her life. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom loved her and were blessed by her presence.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert James, Jr.; her son, Robert James, III; her mother, Gertrude Graham; her father, Luke Nelson; her step‑father, Lonnie “Jack” Graham; her brothers, John Henry Graham and William Thomas Graham; her sisters, Cleo Graham, Lottie Graham, Anna Graham, and Mary Carter; and her granddaughter, Sanice Herrin-James.

Though her passing leaves a profound ache in our hearts, we find comfort in the blessed assurance that Rosetta now rests in perfect peace. Her legacy of faith, devotion, and gentle strength will continue to shine through all whose lives she touched

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